CHELMSFORD -- Bob Majeau's son was the reason he got involved in Kids In Disability Sports 17 years ago.

It was the joy he saw the programs bring to the participants that made him stay.

"If you had fun, you won," is Majeau's motto.

Majeau, 73, loved playing sports growing up in Chelmsford, and dreamed of sharing the enjoyment and camaraderie of these experiences with his children, Michael, 27, and Matthew, 21.

Bob Majeau goes over rosters for floor hockey at the McAuliffe School in Lowell on Wednesday with coach Annie Shupe and Patrick Busby of Dracut, who participates in the KIDS program.

For about 15 years when his children were younger, Majeau coached them in Chelmsford Little League, Upward Basketball at Immanuel Church and Chelmsford Youth Basketball League.

Michael, who was diagnosed with autism at 4 years old, is a natural at sports, but needs some direction to keep his mind in the game, Majeau said. Once Michael outgrew Little League, it was difficult at first to find an organization that could help him play and excel, he said.

Then, someone mentioned Kids In Disability Sports Inc., or KIDS, a Lowell-based nonprofit that provides sports, recreational and social opportunities for kids and adults with disabilities ages 6 and up.

They decided to try out the bowling program at Brunswick Zone in Lowell, and both were hooked.

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Michael soon picked up basketball, and Bob became his coach. Then Bob also picked up coaching baseball.

He recalled one game where a second baseman in a wheelchair stretched out his glove and caught a ball. The boy's face lit up. His smile was endless.

About 10 years ago, Bob joined the KIDS board and became the organization's athletic director.

Volunteer Bob Majeau of Chelmsford, athletic director for Kids in Disability Sports, shares a moment with his son Michael, 27, who is autistic, as he sets up for floor hockey at the McAuliffe School in Lowell on Wednesday.

He works with local schools and communities to rent gyms and fields for KIDS sports, secures equipment and coaches for the different programs, sets up schedules and distributes team lists.

"I really don't know what we'd do without Bob," said fellow board member Angela Busby, of Dracut. "He's key to the success of the programs and this organization."

She's seen firsthand how Majeau brings out the best in every participant, including her son Patrick, 27, who has Down syndrome.

So has fellow board member Denise Mercier, of Dracut, who got involved with the organization for her son, Andrew Dozibrin, 25, who has autism. She said Majeau is a caring, dedicated person who "makes sure everybody's needs are accommodated."

"He works with the kids like it's his own child," said Patty Lynch, of Chelmsford, whose daughter, Cassie, 15, has epilepsy, cerebral palsy, autism and other difficulties. "It means a lot, because for our kids, it's very difficult for them to be able to socialize in the 'normal' realm with their siblings or with other school friends. So to have them involved with KIDS and then have him actually take a part on that, is unbelievable."

Majeau's wife, Doreen, said he puts parents at ease and helps the kids gain confidence and self-esteem.

"If a child feels good about himself, he can do anything," Majeau said.

Kids in Disability Sports offers about 15 different programs throughout the year for Greater Lowell residents. For more information, visit www.kidsinc.us.

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